Malacañang has issued a memorandum circular (MC) directing concerned government agencies to implement programs, activities and projects for the development and promotion of Philippine exports.

The issuance of MC 23 signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin on June 20 was in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s recent approval of the Philippine Export Development Plan (PEDP) 2023-2028.

The PEDP 2023-2028 aims to transform the Philippines into a major exporter of high-value products and services by laying the groundwork for the country to become a dynamic exporting nation by 2028.

Under MC 23, all concerned government agencies are mandated to identify and implement relevant programs, activities and projects in support of the PEDP.

“To ensure the success of the PEDP 2023-2028, it is necessary for all concerned government agencies to support and cooperate in the implementation of the PEDP 2023-2028,” the order read.

Sixty days upon the effectivity MC 23, concerned agencies must submit to the Export Development Council (EDC) and to the Executive Secretary an inventory of relevant programs, activities and projects which are aligned with the strategies under the PEDP 2023-2028.

“These agencies shall implement the identified PAPs to develop and promote Philippine exports, and ensure the free flow of goods, in accordance with the PEDP 2023-2028, PDP (Philippine Development Plan) 2023-2028, and MC No. 27,” MC 23 said.

MC 27 issued in Oct. 2017 identifies and directs concerned government agencies and entities “to collectively work, review, institute reforms and implement relevant policies to boost export growth.”

Meantime, Republic Act 7844 or the Export Development Act of 1994 mandates the EDC to endorse the PEDP for the President’s approval; coordinate, monitor, and assess its implementation; and institute appropriate adjustments in light of changing conditions in both the domestic and international environment.

The EDC is also tasked to ensure the biannual validation and updating of the PEDP pursuant to the provisions of RA 7844 and in the context of the PDP.

Speaking at the International Trade Forum on June 15, Marcos said the PEDP 2023-2028 contains strategies aimed at transforming the local exports industry into a “strong and a highly-competitive pillar of [the Philippine] economy”.

Marcos said the export plan would also help the industry work in “well-coordinated and efficient” manner to achieve a “higher and practical” objective of improving its global competitiveness.

Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual, in a Palace press briefing on June 6, said the PEDP 2023-2038 was crafted pursuant to the Export Development Act of 1994 which defines the country’s export thrusts, strategies, programs and projects.

Pascual said the PEDP 2023-2028 will capitalize on export growth opportunities considering market trends and existing industries’ competencies in the Philippines. (PNA)